Diane Hegarty: LaVey’s First Wife and High Priestess
Anton LaVey remains a figure shrouded in mystique and controversy. As the founder of the Church of Satan, he challenged societal norms and promoted a philosophy of individualism and self-indulgence. While his public persona was carefully constructed to project an image of power and defiance, his personal life, particularly his relationships with women, offers a more nuanced understanding of the man behind the myth. Exploring the lives of Anton LaVey’s wives and consorts, especially Diane Hegarty and Blanche Barton, provides valuable insight into his personal evolution and the development of the Church of Satan itself. This article delves into these relationships, examining their dynamics, impact, and lasting legacy.
Diane Hegarty: LaVey’s First Wife and High Priestess
To truly understand Anton LaVey, one must first acknowledge the pivotal role played by Diane Hegarty. More than just a partner, Hegarty was an integral part of LaVey’s life for over two decades and a cornerstone of the Church of Satan’s early years. Their meeting, shrouded in the same theatrical fog that characterized much of LaVey’s life, occurred in the late nineteen fifties. Hegarty, a sharp and intelligent woman, was immediately drawn to LaVey’s charisma and unconventional views.
Hegarty’s Role in the Church of Satan
Hegarty’s contributions to the Church of Satan extended far beyond simply being Anton LaVey’s wife. She was a co-founder, deeply involved in the creation and implementation of the church’s rituals and philosophy. Serving as High Priestess, she played a crucial role in attracting and guiding early members. Her presence legitimized the church in its formative stages, providing a counterbalance to LaVey’s often provocative pronouncements. Hegarty was actively involved in the visual presentation of the Church; her artwork, photography, and design sensibilities contributed significantly to the church’s aesthetic and imagery. Her commitment to the cause helped the Church gain momentum in its early existence.
Their Relationship Dynamics
The nature of their relationship was complex and defied traditional labels. While never legally married, their partnership functioned as a common-law marriage, built on a foundation of shared intellectual and spiritual pursuits. Their dynamic was one of mutual respect and intellectual sparring, with Hegarty challenging LaVey’s ideas and offering her own perspectives. While some reports suggest an open relationship, the true nature of their bond remains a subject of speculation. The couple were an intrinsic match, working together to build their own personal, professional, and social lives together.
Impact of Their Relationship on the Church of Satan
Their relationship had a profound impact on the Church of Satan. Hegarty’s influence is evident in the church’s focus on individual empowerment and the rejection of traditional morality. Her contributions helped shape the church’s rituals and teachings, ensuring they resonated with a diverse audience. Her role as High Priestess gave women a prominent position within the church, challenging the patriarchal structures of traditional religions. It is very possible, that without Hegarty, the Church of Satan would never have gotten off of the ground.
The End of Their Relationship
After over two decades together, their relationship ended in the early nineteen eighties. The reasons for their separation were multifaceted, including LaVey’s growing fame and the emergence of other romantic interests. The split was reportedly acrimonious, leading to legal disputes over property and custody of their daughter, Zeena. Although the separation was difficult, it did not diminish Hegarty’s lasting impact on LaVey’s life and the Church of Satan. The departure of Anton LaVey’s wife was a tumultuous time for the church and those involved.
Blanche Barton: LaVey’s Partner and Successor
Following the end of his relationship with Hegarty, Anton LaVey forged a new partnership with Blanche Barton. Barton, significantly younger than LaVey, entered his life and quickly became a close companion, collaborator, and ultimately, his successor. Their relationship was characterized by a strong bond and shared dedication to the Church of Satan’s principles.
Barton’s Role in LaVey’s Life
Barton’s role in LaVey’s life was multifaceted. She served as his biographer, chronicling his life and philosophy in the book “The Secret Life of a Satanist.” She also played a crucial role in promoting and defending LaVey’s ideas, often acting as his spokesperson in the media. More than just an assistant, Barton was a trusted confidante and partner, offering LaVey companionship and support in his later years. She was one of his most dedicated devotees, proving herself to be a valuable asset to the Church of Satan’s cause.
The Paternity Controversy Surrounding Zeena Schreck and Karla LaVey
The paternity controversy surrounding Zeena Schreck and Karla LaVey is a key element when discussing Anton LaVey’s family. The debate over who is actually his firstborn child and the daughter who had a closer relationship with him remains a point of contention within the Church of Satan community. This disagreement can shed light on the complexities of LaVey’s personal life and the dynamics within his family.
Barton as High Priestess and Executor of LaVey’s Estate
After LaVey’s death in nineteen ninety-seven, Barton inherited the mantle of High Priestess and became the executor of his estate. This succession was not without controversy, as some members of the Church of Satan questioned her leadership. However, Barton proved to be a capable and dedicated leader, working to preserve LaVey’s legacy and guide the church through a period of transition. Her appointment as High Priestess solidified the impact Anton LaVey’s wife had on the church.
Challenges Faced as High Priestess
As High Priestess, Barton faced numerous challenges. She had to navigate internal conflicts within the church, defend LaVey’s philosophy against criticism, and adapt the Church of Satan to a changing world. She oversaw the publication of LaVey’s writings, ensuring his ideas remained accessible to new generations. She also worked to modernize the church’s image, promoting its message of individualism and self-empowerment to a wider audience. Her unwavering commitment to LaVey’s vision solidified her position as a central figure in the Church of Satan.
Zeena Schreck and Karla LaVey
Zeena Schreck and Karla LaVey, LaVey’s daughters, have had varied relationships with the Church of Satan and their father’s legacy. Understanding their perspectives provides a more complete picture of LaVey’s personal life. Zeena, originally a spokesperson for the church, later renounced Satanism and became a spiritual leader in her own right, publicly distancing herself from her father’s teachings. Karla remained involved with the Church for a period after her father’s death and later formed her own Satanic group. Their differing views on LaVey and the Church of Satan highlight the complexities and challenges within his family. These dynamics can give insight to the world from which Anton LaVey’s wife(s) came.
Common Themes and Comparisons
Intellectual Stimulation and Partnership
Examining the relationships between Anton LaVey’s wives and consorts reveals several recurring themes. Intellectual stimulation was a crucial component of his partnerships. LaVey sought out women who could challenge his ideas and contribute to his intellectual pursuits. Both Hegarty and Barton were intelligent and articulate, playing active roles in shaping his philosophy and promoting his message.
Unconventionality and Freedom
Unconventionality was another defining characteristic of LaVey’s relationships. He rejected traditional notions of marriage and monogamy, opting for partnerships that allowed for greater freedom and autonomy. His relationships with both Hegarty and Barton defied societal norms, reflecting his broader rejection of conventional morality.
Comparing Hegarty and Barton
Comparing Hegarty and Barton reveals both similarities and differences in their roles. Hegarty was instrumental in the Church of Satan’s formative years, helping to establish its rituals, philosophy, and aesthetic. Barton, on the other hand, played a more prominent role in promoting LaVey’s legacy and guiding the church through a period of transition. Both women were strong and independent, contributing significantly to LaVey’s life and the Church of Satan’s evolution. These elements contribute to the narrative of Anton LaVey’s wife.
LaVey’s Views on Women and Sexuality
LaVey’s views on women and sexuality were complex and often contradictory. While he advocated for individual freedom and self-expression, some critics have accused him of promoting misogynistic and objectifying views. Examining his writings and pronouncements on these topics reveals a tension between his progressive ideals and his adherence to certain patriarchal norms. His views are important to acknowledge as we consider the lives of Anton LaVey’s wife.
Conclusion
Anton LaVey was a complex and controversial figure, and his relationships with women were equally multifaceted. Diane Hegarty and Blanche Barton, as two of Anton LaVey’s wives/consorts, played significant roles in his life, shaping his philosophy, and contributing to the development of the Church of Satan. Understanding these relationships offers valuable insights into LaVey’s personal life and the evolution of his ideas.
While LaVey’s legacy remains a subject of debate, the impact of the women who shared his life cannot be denied. They were more than just wives or consorts; they were intellectual partners, collaborators, and custodians of his legacy. Their stories offer a more nuanced and complete understanding of the man behind the myth, revealing the human side of the self-proclaimed “Black Pope.” They were essential components of the life and legend of Anton LaVey’s wife. The dynamic of Anton LaVey’s wife is essential for understanding the progression of the Church of Satan and the mark that Anton LaVey left on the world.
